The UN CRDP-affiliated Zero Project, a global, research-driven initiative aiming to build a world with zero barriers to people with disabilities, has awarded South African EduTech initiative, iSchoolAfrica Education Trust, for one of the groundbreaking 77 innovative disability inclusion solutions from 45 countries out of 522 nominations across 90 nations. The event took place on the 6th of March 2025, at the United Nations Office in Vienna, Austria.
Michelle Lissoos, iSchoolAfrica Director received the award, and was joined by South African Ambassador to Austria, Ambassador Sydney Molekane.
iSchoolAfrica’s Deaf Developers Programme has trained eight Deaf youth to become iOS app developers, with the critical outcome being employment with iSchoolAfrica corporate partners. The iSchoolAfrica team designed the Deaf Developers Programme to transform the narrative of disabled youth unemployment in South Africa. An innovation of this programme also included the introduction of various coding terms into South African Sign Language.
“Being here among so many changemakers from every corner of the world, with one mission to create a world with zero barriers – is truly an honour. A big shout out to the iSchoolAfrica team and our talented Deaf developers. Thank you to our corporate partners who made this journey possible, Core Group and SAB Foundation . With the award, also comes huge responsibility. We, as iSchoolAfrica , need to continue working towards a world with zero barriers for people with disabilities, and harnessing the tools available to achieve this”, said Michelle Lissoos, iSchoolAfrica Director.
Michael Fembek, Member of the Board of the Essl Foundation and CEO of the Zero Project, said: “Zero Project Awardees are leading the way in harnessing ICT and AI to remove barriers and create opportunities for persons with disabilities across the globe. Their work is not just about technological advancement; it is about building an inclusive future where technology works for everyone.”
Since 2009, iSchoolAfrica has provided over 100 000 South African learners, from ECD to Grade 12, with state-of-the-art technology and education practices.
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